BI procuring new e-gates to decongest Naia
The Bureau of Immigration is procuring new electronic gates to decongest the immigration area of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. — Inquirer file photos
MANILA, Philippines — New electronic gates (e-gates) are being procured to decongest the immigration area of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Naia) to expedite passenger flow and improve passenger experience.
“The BI (Bureau of Immigration) is currently procuring new e-gates that will replace the old e-gates na medyo outdated na rin (that are already outdated),” Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon said in a press conference.
READ: BI vows to improve e-gates system
According to Dizon, the procurement of the e-gates is part of the government’s efforts to reduce—or totally eliminate—long lines in Naia.
BI spokesperson Dana Sandoval said the procurement of e-gates is part of BI’s long term efforts to address this issue.
She said in a statement that the BI’s priority are the overseas Filipino workers and the bureau’s “long-term goal is to just have them swipe their passports and the immigration clearance is done.”
Dizon said he also met with BI Commissioner Joel Viado to address the issues of long immigration queues in Naia, particularly Terminal 3.
“I think in the coming days we will already start seeing some improvements [in Naia],” said Dizon.
”We have spoken together with the team here at Naia and I think we will see improvements, especially this upcoming Holy Week,” he added.
